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UTRGV Buys Monitor Building to House Future School of Optometry

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UTRGV Buys Monitor Building to House Future School of Optometry
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley has closed on the purchase of The Monitor building in McAllen, a landmark facility that will become the future home of the university’s new School of Optometry. Image credit: Google Maps 2026
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley has closed on the purchase of The Monitor building in McAllen, a landmark facility that will become the future home of the university’s new School of Optometry. Image credit: Google Maps 2026

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University of Texas Rio Grande Valley has closed on the purchase of The Monitor building in McAllen, a landmark facility that will become the future home of the university’s new School of Optometry. University officials said the purchase will also support additional health, research, and academic initiatives aimed at strengthening the Rio Grande Valley.

An aerial view of the former Monitor building property at the corner of Nolana Avenue and Jackson Road in McAllen, Texas. Jackson Road is a major thoroughfare connecting McAllen and Pharr. Image credit Google Maps 2026

The transaction was announced on January 13, 2026. The nearly 89,000-square-foot building includes office and warehouse space. It is located about 1.5 miles from the recently opened UTRGV Health RGV Cancer and Surgery Center at 495 Commerce Center. University leaders said the proximity of the two sites is intended to expand UTRGV’s ability to serve community needs through education, clinical care, and research.

Guy Bailey. Image by Roberto Hugo González

“The opening of a dedicated space for our School of Optometry marks a major step forward for UTRGV and the Rio Grande Valley,” UTRGV President Guy Bailey said. “With this facility located near our Cancer and Surgery Center, we’re strengthening a corridor for learning, research, and care that serves our students and the RGV community.”

The School of Optometry reached an important milestone in May 2025 when it received Stage One designation from the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education. The designation is an early step toward full accreditation and supports plans to launch the program in fall 2027.

Once fully accredited, UTRGV would become only the second public university in Texas to offer a Doctor of Optometry program, according to the university. Officials said the new facility will allow the program to develop clinical, instructional, and research spaces needed for training future optometrists.

Dr. William Miller. Image courtesy UTRGV

“Establishing a permanent home for our School of Optometry is about improving lives in the Rio Grande Valley,” said Dr. William Miller, dean of the UTRGV School of Optometry. “This facility will allow us to build the clinics, learning spaces, and partnerships needed to expand access to eye care, prepare future optometrists who understand the needs of our communities, and grow research and academic initiatives that drive long-term health and opportunity for our region.”

GBIC President & CEO Named to Texas 100 Influential Pros to Know for 2026

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GBIC President & CEO Named to Texas 100 Influential Pros to Know for 2026
Gilberto Salinas, President and CEO of the Greater Brownsville Incentives Corporation (GBIC), has been recognized as part of the Texas 100: Influential Pros to Know for 2026. Courtesy images
Gilberto Salinas, President and CEO of the Greater Brownsville Incentives Corporation (GBIC), has been recognized as part of the Texas 100: Influential Pros to Know for 2026. Courtesy images

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BROWNSVILLE, Texas – Gilberto Salinas, President and CEO of the Greater Brownsville Incentives Corporation (GBIC), has been recognized as part of the Texas 100: Influential Pros to Know for 2026, an annual list curated by Texas Business Journals that spotlights impactful individuals across the state who are expected to make headlines in the year ahead.

The Texas 100 is not a traditional power list, but rather a collection of influential Texans who are shaping their industries and communities in meaningful ways. Compiled collaboratively by business journals in Austin, Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio, the list highlights leaders from a wide range of sectors, from technology and real estate to sports and economic development who are considered people to watch in 2026.

Salinas’s recognition reflects his leadership in advancing Brownsville’s economic development strategy and raising the region’s profile across Texas and beyond. As President and CEO of GBIC, he leads efforts to attract investment, support job creation, and foster partnerships that strengthen the local and regional economy.

Salinas is widely recognized for his contributions to the field of economic development. In 2021, he was named one of North America’s Top 50 Economic Developers, and he is a recipient of Development Counsellors International’s (DCI) inaugural 40-Under-40 Rising Stars in Economic Development. In addition, Salinas has been appointed to key leadership roles at the state level, including his appointment by Governor Greg Abbott to the Texas Aerospace & Aviation Advisory Committee in 2016 and his appointment in 2023 as Chairman of the Texas Education Agency’s oversight committee on charter education.

“The Texas 100 is about impact, accessibility, and leadership that may not always be in the spotlight but is shaping what comes next,” said Gilberto Salinas. “I’m honored to be included among this group and proud to represent Brownsville as we continue working to create opportunities and build a stronger economic future for our community.”

The Texas 100 feature emphasizes connection and visibility, introducing readers to leaders who may be new to them and whose work is influencing business and community outcomes across the state. Salinas’s recognition underscores the growing influence of Brownsville’s economic development efforts and the role of collaborative leadership in driving progress.

Texas Invests $15.2M in Tekscend Photomask to Strengthen Semiconductor Supply Chain

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Texas Invests $15.2M in Tekscend Photomask to Strengthen Semiconductor Supply Chain
The project is expected to create 50 jobs and represents more than $223 million in capital investment. Image for illustration purposes
The project is expected to create 50 jobs and represents more than $223 million in capital investment. Image for illustration purposes

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AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott announced that a Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund (TSIF) grant of $15.2 million has been extended to Tekscend Photomask Round Rock Inc. to expand photomask production capacity at their manufacturing facility in Round Rock. The project is expected to create 50 jobs and represents more than $223 million in capital investment.

“Texas is where the integrated circuit began and where the future of the semiconductor industry is being built,” said Governor Abbott. “This $223 million investment by Tekscend Photomask to expand production capacity at their photomask facility in Round Rock will further strengthen a critical supply chain for semiconductor manufacturing in Texas. By partnering with innovative industry leaders, Texas will lead the American resurgence in semiconductor manufacturing and the technologies of tomorrow.”

Tekscend Photomask is a leading manufacturer of photomasks, essential components in semiconductor chip production. The multi-phase expansion includes increasing the capacity of the existing facility in Round Rock by more than 40%, modernizing the equipment and facilities to improve efficiency, and extending technology capability down to the 12nm technology node, used in chip manufacturing for AI, industrial, automotive, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, microcontrollers, sensors, and a range of other devices.

“Since 1987, Tekscend Photomask has been proud to call Round Rock home, supporting the Texas and U.S. semiconductor industry with world-class photomask manufacturing,” said Tekscend Photomask Round Rock President John Nykaza. “The support from TSIF enables us to accelerate our expansion — boosting both our technical capabilities and our production capacity. This investment not only strengthens the regional supply chain but also creates additional high-skilled jobs here in Texas, ensuring we can meet the growing research and development and commercial photomask needs of our customers for years to come.”

“By expanding their Round Rock facility, Tekscend Photomask is helping drive the next chapter of advanced manufacturing in our region,” said Senator Charles Schwertner. “This initiative strengthens our local economy and bolsters the infrastructure needed for continued technical progress.”

“Texas continues to lead the nation in advanced manufacturing and semiconductor innovation,” said Representative John Bucy III. “The Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund grant awarded to Tekscend Photomask Round Rock Inc. represents a powerful investment in our state’s future while creating 50 high-skilled jobs right here in Round Rock. This expansion strengthens Texas’ position as the premier destination for cutting-edge technology and reinforces our commitment to building a resilient, world-class semiconductor supply chain.”

View more information about Tekscend Photomask.

Governor Abbott signed the Texas CHIPS Act into law in 2023 to establish the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund, a grant program to encourage the continued leadership of Texas in semiconductor research, design, and manufacturing, as well as the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Consortium. These programs, administered by the Texas CHIPS Office, a division within the Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office in the Office of the Governor, are designed to leverage Texas’ investments in the semiconductor industry, encourage semiconductor-related companies to expand in the state, further develop the expertise and capacity of Texas institutions of higher education, and maintain the state’s position as the nation’s leader in semiconductor manufacturing.

Why U.S. Monetary Independence Is Crucial for Economic Stability

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Why U.S. Monetary Independence Is Crucial for Economic Stability
"The Federal Reserve has consistently seen competent leadership supported by excellent research yield decisions to support its dual mandate. It has not been perfect but has been excellent and consistently credible. " Image for illustration purposes
“The Federal Reserve has consistently seen competent leadership supported by excellent research yield decisions to support its dual mandate. It has not been perfect but has been excellent and consistently credible. ” Image for illustration purposes

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Dr. M. Ray Perryman, President and Chief Executive Officer of The Perryman Group. Courtesy Image

An independent US monetary authority is imperative for economic growth, prosperity, stability, and — indeed — sustainability! Period!

About 50 years ago, my dissertation developed an early model of the monetary system and measured the effects of Federal Reserve policy. In the process, I read minutes of every Fed meeting since the early 1950s, a practice that I continue. Thus, I have absorbed the minutia of 70-plus years of monetary policy (no comments regarding my social life). Independence is essential!

For perspective, the Second Bank of the United States, which stabilized the economy following the War of 1812, was abolished by President Andrew Jackson in 1836. The country was without a central bank for almost 80 years, resulting in multiple financial meltdowns with no safety net. After the Panic of 1907, Congress created the Federal Reserve in 1913, formally added the Federal Open Market Committee in 1936, and instituted the “dual mandate” supporting full employment and stable prices in the Full Employment Act of 1946 (which was strengthened in 1978).

It is no coincidence that the mandate began at the dawn of the post-War era of global US economic dominance and the emergence of the dollar as the linchpin of international commerce. The Fed has since responded to major wars, explosive conflicts, pandemics, droughts, currency crises, terrorist attacks, and the bursting of numerous bubbles. The capacity to rapidly make informed, research-based decisions largely insulated from politics is frequently invaluable.

In the early 1980s, Federal Reserve policies broke the cycle of double-digit inflation. The necessary short-term cost was significant and could not have happened without independence. As markets reopened after 9/11, the Fed implemented critical stabilization initiatives. As the Great Recession unfolded, quick and decisive action literally prevented a global collapse. During the pandemic, the Fed infused massive liquidity, avoiding incalculable human suffering. This response is (predictably) partially responsible for subsequent inflation, but the choice was a terrible option (inflation) or a catastrophic one. Independence allowed the Fed to pick the terrible one.

The Federal Reserve has consistently seen competent leadership supported by excellent research yield decisions to support its dual mandate. It has not been perfect but has been excellent and consistently credible.

Going forward, independence is even more vital. Decades of spiraling deficits have created the need to continuously borrow extensive funds, which requires that the world view US debt as the very definition of a politically risk-free asset. There are warning signs of late. Last April 9, during the apex of the tariff fiasco, investors started looking elsewhere (which brought shockwaves and precipitated an immediate 90-day moratorium). We are now seeing greater movement to alternative assets and spiking gold prices, both definitive signs of faltering confidence in US debt. Threats to monetary independence significantly heighten these concerns.

Every President wants the economy juiced with lower interest rates as elections approach, irrespective of long-term consequences. That decision must occur in a dispassionate and analytical manner devoid of politics, which is only possible with a strong and independent monetary authority. Stay safe!

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Dr. M. Ray Perryman is President and Chief Executive Officer of The Perryman Group (www.perrymangroup.com), which has served the needs of over 3,000 clients over the past four decades.

Texas Oil and Natural Gas Industry Shattered Records in 2025

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Texas Oil and Natural Gas Industry Shattered Records in 2025
Highlights from the report include $27.0 billion in state and local taxes and state royalties paid by the oil and natural gas industry—the second-highest total on record—a feat driven by record-breaking performance across the industry. Image for illustration purposes

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Texas Oil and Gas Producers (TXOGA)

AUSTIN – The Texas oil and natural gas industry shattered another string of records in 2025, according to the Texas Oil & Gas Association’s (TXOGA) newly released 2025 Energy & Economic Impact Report(EEIR). Highlights from the report include $27.0 billion in state and local taxes and state royalties paid by the oil and natural gas industry—the second-highest total on record—a feat driven by record-breaking performance across the industry.

Here’s what Texas’ leaders had to say about this year’s phenomenal EEIR results and the importance of the oil and natural gas industry in the Lone Star State:

Governor Greg Abbott

“Texas is the energy capital of the world, and TXOGA’s report shows oil and natural gas are the lifeblood of Texas’ economy that will sustain our state and nation for generations to come,” said Governor Greg Abbott. “The billions of dollars generated by our robust oil and gas sector deliver opportunities for Texans to succeed. We will always defend this industry and champion the millions of Texans whose hard work fuels our might.”

Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick

“The Texas oil and gas industry is the backbone of our state, powering the American and global economy with energy produced right here at home. TXOGA’s 2025 Energy & Economic Impact report underscores just how critical oil and natural gas are to everyday life in Texas.”

House Speaker Dustin Burrows

“The historic tax revenues and royalties detailed in TXOGA’s latest report provide essential funding needed to support our growing state. From investing in our children’s education to improving our transportation infrastructure, the oil and natural gas industry remains a vital partner in Texas’ prosperity. I applaud the industry for its continued commitment to innovation and job creation.”

Acting Comptroller Kelly Hancock

“As the state’s chief financial officer, I see firsthand how the oil and natural gas industry stabilizes our fiscal outlook and provides the resources necessary to keep Texas’ economy vibrant. The payments to the Permanent School Fund, Permanent University Fund and the Rainy Day Fund ensure a legacy of financial stability for future generations. My office will continue to advocate for the fiscal policies that allow this critical sector to thrive and grow.”

Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham

“Through the stewardship of our state lands, the General Land Office works hand-in-hand with the energy industry to fund public education for every Texas child. TXOGA’s report showcases the incredible results of that partnership. We will continue to fight to keep Texas energy production strong and protect our state’s ability to generate the revenue that supports our schools and our veterans.”

Railroad Commission Chairman Jim Wright

“The 2025 report illustrates the far-reaching impact of Texas energy, from the Permian Basin to our Gulf Coast ports. This industry doesn’t just provide fuel; it provides the high-paying jobs that sustain our communities. Texas is committed to fostering the innovation and infrastructure needed to ensure that our energy resources remain the most efficient and responsible in the world.”

Railroad Commissioner Christi Craddick

“Texas continues to lead the nation in production while setting the gold standard for progress. This report is a testament to the hard work of our operators and the common-sense regulatory environment we maintain at the Railroad Commission. We are proud to oversee an industry that provides the raw materials and the economic energy that powers the Texas economy and that makes the world a safer place.”

Railroad Commissioner Wayne Christian

“Oil and natural gas are the lifeblood of our modern civilization, providing national security and global stability. The data in this year’s TXOGA report proves once again that Texas is the world’s most reliable energy producer. I will continue to fight back against the radicals that threaten the Texas Miracle and our energy independence.”

Information Source: TXOGA

The 2025 McAllen Holiday Parade — lighting up America, Mexico, and beyond!

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The 2025 McAllen Holiday Parade — lighting up America, Mexico, and beyond!

The magic RETURNS! This Christmas, catch the special rebroadcast of the 2025 McAllen Holiday Parade — lighting up America, Mexico, and beyond! Presented by H‑E‑B and powered by Bert Ogden, it’s the night Santa, Michael Irvin, Julián Gil, Danny Trejo, Jake Ferguson and 265,000 fans turned McAllen into pure holiday MAGIC! Get ready for giant spinning balloons like Garfield, Mr. Monopoly, Sponge Bob, Mr. Potato Head and more [🎈] [💫] as the crowd chants “Vuelta!” [❤️]
Thank you to our lead partners including H-E-B, Bert Ogden Rio Grande Valley, McAllen International Airport, Reliant Energy ®, Visit South Padre Island, Lone Star National Bank, and so many more that make this event possible! #McAllenHolidayParade #ChristmasAcrossAmerica #Vuelta

Major Accomplishments for South Texas and Our Nation’s Veterans in 2026

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Major Accomplishments for South Texas and Our Nation’s Veterans in 2026
Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz proudly announces a strong start to the new year with two major accomplishments for South Texas and our nation’s veterans. Image for illustration purposes
Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz proudly announces a strong start to the new year with two major accomplishments for South Texas and our nation’s veterans. Image for illustration purposes

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Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz proudly announces a strong start to the new year with two major accomplishments for South Texas and our nation’s veterans.

The U.S. Senate has passed the Disabled Veterans Housing Support Act, a critical piece of legislation championed by Congresswoman De La Cruz to ensure disabled veterans have access to safe and affordable housing. This milestone reflects her unwavering commitment to those who have served our country.

In addition, Congresswoman De La Cruz successfully secured $1.75 million in federal funding to support vital projects across South Texas communities. These investments will strengthen local infrastructure, create opportunities, and improve quality of life for residents.

“These victories represent our dedication to delivering results for veterans and South Texas families,” said Congresswoman De La Cruz. “I will continue working tirelessly to ensure our communities thrive.”

Watch the Video below to hear the full message:

Information source: Office of Congresswoman De La Cruz

Federal Grant Brings Expanded Mental Health Services to South Texas Schools

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Federal Grant Brings Expanded Mental Health Services to South Texas Schools
Federal funding totaling $4,790,545 will be directed to South Texas schools over the next four years to expand student mental health services, following a successful grant application by Region One Education Service Center. Image for illustration purposes
Federal funding totaling $4,790,545 will be directed to South Texas schools over the next four years to expand student mental health services, following a successful grant application by Region One Education Service Center. Image for illustration purposes

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Federal funding totaling $4,790,545 will be directed to South Texas schools over the next four years to expand student mental health services, following a successful grant application by Region One Education Service Center. The funding was awarded by the U.S. Department of Education through its Mental Health Service Professionals Demonstration Program.

The award was announced by Vicente Gonzalez, who said the funding is intended to address the shortage of credentialed school psychologists in rural and underserved areas of South Texas. For Fiscal Year 2026, Region One will receive $1,198,055 as part of the multi-cycle, four-year grant.

“School should be safe havens where students feel empowered to seek support for the challenges they may face at home or in the classroom,” Gonzalez said. He added, “Strengthening the pipeline of trained psychologists in rural areas who can provide early identification and assistance to the mental health needs of a child makes all the difference.”

Region One Education Service Center applied for the federal grant and will oversee the implementation of the program across 34 campuses, serving nearly 16,000 students in the Rio Grande Valley and surrounding areas. The initiative focuses on recruiting, hiring, and training credentialed school psychologists to meet growing student mental health needs.

“With this funding, we will ensure that every student—regardless of zip code—has the trusted support and tools to succeed in life,” Gonzalez said.

The program will be carried out in collaboration with the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and other partners. Participating school districts include Mercedes Independent School District, Raymondville ISD, and Rio Hondo ISD.

According to program details, the initiative will initially recruit and onboard 10 new school psychologists, with two additional psychologists added each year. It will also provide training opportunities for educators through fieldwork and credit-bearing learning experiences, expand practicum and internship placements, and strengthen clinical practice through professional development and targeted skill training in behavioral and mental health services.

The funding represents a coordinated effort at the federal, regional, and local levels, with the U.S. Department of Education providing the financial support, Region One leading the application and implementation, and Congressman Gonzalez promoting the need for increased mental health resources for students in South Texas.

Ribbon Cutting Marks New Lighting at Brownsville Sports Park

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Ribbon Cutting Marks New Lighting at Brownsville Sports Park
Mayor John Cowan, Mayor of Brownsville, Texas, and President at Cowen Group, LTD, cuts the ribbon during a ceremony marking the opening of the new professional-grade Musco Lighting System at the Softball Complex at Brownsville Sports Park. Courtesy image
Mayor John Cowan, Mayor of Brownsville, Texas, and President at Cowen Group, LTD, cuts the ribbon during a ceremony marking the opening of the new professional-grade Musco Lighting System at the Softball Complex at Brownsville Sports Park. Courtesy image

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Mayor John Cowan, Mayor of Brownsville, Texas, and President at Cowen Group, LTD, attended and led the ribbon-cutting ceremony this morning at Brownsville Sports Park, marking the completion of a new professional-grade Musco Lighting System at the park’s Softball Complex.

“This morning, we marked an exciting milestone at Brownsville Sports Park with the ribbon-cutting for the new professional-grade Musco Lighting System at the Softball Complex,” Cowan said. He described the project as a meaningful improvement for the city’s athletic infrastructure.

Welcome to Brownsville Sports Park. Courtesy image

According to Cowan, “This investment strengthens our athletic facilities, supports our athletes, and reflects our continued commitment to providing high-quality, safe spaces for our community to train, compete, and come together.” He said the lighting upgrade is designed to better serve athletes, families, and visitors who use the complex.

Cowan also recognized the individuals and organizations involved in the project. “Thank you to the Brownsville Parks & Recreation Department, Director Sean de Palma, Tino Villarreal, City Commissioner at Large A, Commissioner Gustavo Deleon, Alan Guard, Interim City Manager, the Brownsville Community Improvement Corporation, Cori Peña, the City of Brownsville, TX – Municipal Government, and all those who made this possible,” he said.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony formally opened the upgraded lighting system at the Softball Complex, completing a project city leaders say is focused on improving safety, expanding usable hours, and enhancing the overall experience for the community at Brownsville Sports Park.

Abbott, U.S. Ambassadors Discuss Security, Defense Innovation, and Industry Growth

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Abbott, U.S. Ambassadors Discuss Security, Defense Innovation, and Industry Growth

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AUSTIN — Governor Greg Abbott met with U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker, U.S. Ambassador to the Kingdom of the Netherlands Joseph Popolo, U.S. Ambassador to Poland Tom Rose, and U.S. Ambassador to the Czech Republic Nicholas Merrick to discuss strengthening transatlantic security, Texas’ defense manufacturing and innovation sectors, and promoting U.S. industry.

Governor Greg Abbott with U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker, U.S. Ambassador to the Kingdom of the Netherlands Joseph Popolo, U.S. Ambassador to Poland Tom Rose, and U.S. Ambassador to the Czech Republic Nicholas Merrick. Photo: Office of The Governor

During the meeting, Governor Abbott highlighted Texas’ investments in advanced manufacturing capabilities, which solidify the state as a national leader in artificial intelligence, defense innovation, semiconductor capacity, and the global aerospace and aviation industry. Ambassador Whitaker thanked Governor Abbott for his work to ensure the United States and its allies stand strong against bad actors. The Governor and the Ambassadors emphasized the importance of maintaining partnerships between their countries and Texas to strengthen national security. 

Governor Abbott discussing the issues with the U.S. Ambassadors at the Governor’s Mansion in Austin. Photo: Office of the Governor

Additionally, the group touted Texas’ energy ecosystem and noted that, through its all-of-the-above energy approach, it is stronger than ever before. Governor Abbott also discussed the state’s efforts to lead the nuclear renaissance and highlighted the creation of the Texas Advanced Nuclear Energy Office and the Texas Advanced Nuclear Development Fund to incentivize the development of nuclear energy in Texas. The Ambassadors echoed the importance of energy generation capabilities that power manufacturing in the critical defense, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and semiconductor industries.

The Ambassadors met with Governor Abbott during their two-day tour of Texas, visiting with major manufacturers in several cities.

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